§ Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about operations in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. StanleyMilitary operations are being carried out, in support of the Royal Ulster Constabulary's fight against terrorism, by the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force. The Army element currently comprises 10 Regular battalions and 9 battalions of the Ulster Defence Regiment. A major contribution is also being made by various support elements, including the Royal Engineers.
The figures given by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 1 May in reply to my hon. Friends the Members for Suffolk, South (Mr. Yeo) and for Billericay (Mr. Proctor), at column 1091, reflect both the effectiveness of these operations and the skill, professionalism and commitment of all elements of the security forces in carrying out their difficult and dangerous duties.